In a shocking turn of events, Todd Stamper, the founder and CEO of Priority Waste, has been abruptly removed from his position, leaving many to wonder what led to this sudden decision. The Clinton Township-based waste hauling firm announced on Monday, February 9, that Stamper was ousted by the board of directors, effective immediately. But here’s where it gets controversial: while the official statement provided no specific reason for his removal, Crain’s Detroit Business reported that the board’s decision followed an investigation. The company spokesperson confirmed the accuracy of this report but declined to elaborate further. What could have prompted such a dramatic move?
Vincent Hoyumpa, a seasoned executive who has served as chief of staff and general counsel for the past seven years, has been appointed interim CEO. Priority Waste expressed confidence in Hoyumpa’s ability to lead, citing his deep understanding of the business and the support of a talented team and strong financial institutions. The company assured stakeholders that the transition would be seamless for employees, customers, and partners. But this is the part most people miss: could this leadership change signal deeper issues within the company, or is it simply a strategic shift?
Founded by Stamper in 2018, Priority Waste quickly became a major player in Michigan’s waste management industry, securing contracts in hundreds of communities across the state, including most of Macomb County, as well as in Ohio and Indiana. The company gained significant visibility in 2024 after acquiring GFL Environmental Inc.’s residential waste-collection business in suburban Toronto. That same year, Priority Waste made headlines by becoming the Detroit Red Wings’ first jersey patch partner and sponsoring free fares on Detroit’s People Mover. Today, the company serves approximately 700,000 residents in Genesee, Livingston, Macomb, Oakland, and Wayne counties, accounting for 80-85% of the tri-county area’s residential accounts.
However, the company’s rapid growth wasn’t without challenges. Following the GFL acquisition, Priority Waste faced a wave of complaints from elected officials and customers over delayed trash pickups, staffing issues, and communication breakdowns. Clinton Township, the state’s largest township, took a firm stance by fining Priority Waste $1.2 million for unresolved complaints. The company has since worked to address these issues, investing in new trash trucks and implementing other improvements. Despite these efforts, does this leadership shakeup suggest that the company’s troubles run deeper than previously acknowledged?
Stamper’s removal comes just a year after he was named one of 11 winners of the Ernst & Young LLP Entrepreneur Of The Year Michigan and Northwest Ohio contest in 2025, adding another layer of intrigue to this story. As Priority Waste moves forward under new leadership, one can’t help but wonder: What does this mean for the company’s future, and will it be enough to restore trust among its stakeholders?
What’s your take? Do you think Stamper’s removal was justified, or is there more to the story than meets the eye? Share your thoughts in the comments below—we’d love to hear your perspective!
